Mountain trips are an excellent way to spend an active vacation in the fresh air. Thanks to a great variety of trails, this form of activity is available both for seasoned hikers and for beginners. However, regardless of whether we choose an easy or demanding route, we should be properly prepared for the trip - also in terms of clothing. We suggest how to dress in the mountains in summer!
Why is summer mountain wear so important?
Many people go to the mountains mainly in the summer, when it is generally safer there. Sunny aura, high temperatures, and long days should not deceive us - not only can different conditions prevail at different altitudes, but above all, the weather in the mountains can change very quickly. Therefore, it is necessary not only to regularly check the current forecasts but also to take care of the appropriate clothing - one that provides thermoregulation, protection against moisture, wind, and sun, while at the same time guarantees comfort, which increases the pleasure of hiking.
What clothes to wear in the mountains in summer? First, thermal underwear
Answering the question of how to dress in the mountains in summer, it is worth starting with thermal underwear. Although it is associated with winter activities, it is worth knowing that it can also work great in summer, providing comfort and protection during a hike in various weather conditions. How does thermal underwear work? It has been designed in a way to effectively support the regulation of body temperature. Thermal underwear is made of specialized, modern materials that wick moisture away from the skin. As a result, the skin remains dry even during intense effort or at high temperatures, reducing the feeling of discomfort as well as the risk of blisters and chafing.
Among the advantages of thermal underwear, its lightness and elasticity are also mentioned, thanks to which you maintain full freedom of movement without the feeling of compression. Flat seams are often used in thermal underwear, which additionally increase wearing comfort and minimize the risk of chafing. Moreover, this type of underwear dries very quickly, which, even in the event of a sudden change in weather conditions - for example in case of a storm or downpour - provides warmth and reduces the feeling of cold. And that's not all the advantages of thermal underwear - if you decide on a model with a built-in UV filter, you can also count on protection against solar radiation, and thus more effectively protect the skin from burns.
How to dress in the mountains in summer? Opt for layered clothing
As we have already mentioned, even in summer, the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. Of course, you should always check the current forecasts before going to the mountains, but even a day that promises to be beautiful can surprise us with the variability of weather conditions. Moreover, you must be aware that different weather conditions can prevail depending on the altitude you are at. The best solution to ensure thermal comfort and protection throughout the hike is the technique of layering clothing.
Hiking pants
If you are wondering how to dress in the mountains in summer, you should know that hiking pants are a fundamental element of clothing in the mountains. Especially recommended are models with detachable legs, which combine the functionality of shorts and long trousers, and allow for quick and easy adjustment of the outfit to the current weather. Pants that ensure effective moisture wicking, keeping the skin dry, reducing the feeling of discomfort, and the occurrence of chafing would be an excellent choice. However, if you wish to wear shorts in the mountains in summer, pack an additional pair of long pants in your backpack in case of a sudden weather change.
Trekking shirts
In compiling clothing for the mountains in summer, do not forget about high-quality trekking shirts. Thanks to the use of innovative technologies, modern trekking shirts effectively wick moisture away from the skin surface and help maintain its dryness. Quick-drying models with good breathability guarantee freedom of movement and a feeling of freshness even during intensive effort and all-day hiking.
Light rain jacket
In the mountains in summer, rain can surprise you at any time – even if in the morning you enjoy sunny weather and a cloudless sky. Therefore, always have a light rain jacket in your backpack, which will provide protection not only in case of rain but also against wind or a sudden drop in temperature.
Also read: Summer in the mountains - why is it worth spending it in Krynica-Zdroj?
On the market, you can find many models equipped with advanced technologies that allow for wicking moisture from the inside, preventing excessive sweating, and additionally providing waterproofness, excellent breathability, or protection against wind. Such a rain jacket is thin and easily foldable, so you can fit it in your backpack without a problem.
Trekking socks
While we are increasingly aware of how important good trekking shoes are as part of clothing in the mountains, socks are an element often overlooked - unjustly, because properly selected ones will provide you with comfort, and your feet with protection even during a long hike. The most popular models include:
- socks made of merino wool, which is soft, delicate to the touch, and supports body temperature regulation. The natural properties of merino wool provide both excellent thermal insulation and breathability, making it an excellent solution not only on cool, but also warm days. Socks made of merino wool also support moisture wicking from the skin surface, giving a feeling of dryness;
- socks made of synthetic materials, such as polyester or nylon, are characterized by lightness, durability, and resistance to damage. Synthetic materials also have breathable and moisture-wicking properties, allowing for maintaining dryness of the feet. Their advantage is also quick drying, which proves invaluable in changing weather conditions.
Sun protection
An aspect that should not be neglected when planning mountain hikes in summer is sun protection. Due to high exposure to the sun, the skin in the mountains is exceptionally vulnerable to burns, however, using sunscreen alone is not enough. It is also recommended to wear a head covering made of light, breathable materials, which will protect it from overheating, and sunglasses, shielding the eyes from harmful radiation. Properly selected sunglasses have a UV filter that blocks both UVA and UVB radiation.
The best base for mountain hikes
If you are planning a holiday in the mountains and wondering where to go, discover Hotel Belmonte – a five-star hotel in Krynica-Zdroj, which offers guests comfortable rooms and apartments, and an impressive array of amenities, including access to a modern Wellness Zone with a swimming pool and saunas, and a well-equipped gym.
Looking for an offer for family holidays in the mountains? With the youngest guests in mind, Belmonte has prepared a rich animation program and additional attractions, and throughout the stay, children are also awaited by the Lamy Belamy playroom as well as books and board games for rent. Additionally, it is a pet-friendly hotel - so if you are wondering where to go with a dog in the mountains, Belmonte will be an excellent proposal for a vacation in the company of a four-legged friend.
